Water leaks are one of the most common—and costly—issues homeowners throughout Florida face. But this is especially the case in Central Florida, where the climate is often humid and prone to heavy rain. In Central Florida, water leaks can quickly escalate into significant problems.
Whether you’re dealing with leaks from a plumbing issue, a damaged roof, or a faulty appliance, knowing the signs of a water leak is essential for preventing extensive damage. But how can you tell if you have a water leak in your home? Here are some key indicators that you may have a water leak if you have a home in Central Florida.
One of the first signs of a water leak is an unusually high water bill despite there not being an excess of extra water used. If you’ve been using the same amount of water but notice a sharp increase in your monthly utility bill, then it’s definitely worth investigating further.
How to check:
In Central Florida, leaks can be caused by plumbing issues, roof leaks, or even humidity. Most water leaks, even hidden ones, will eventually develop visible signs. The most common areas include on your walls, ceilings, or floors. If you discover discoloration in these areas, it could be signs that water is infiltrating your home.
Where to check:
Excess moisture, especially in hidden areas like walls, crawl spaces, and basements, can quickly lead to mold growth. If you start noticing musty or moldy odors, then it’s a sign that there may be a hidden leak somewhere in your home. A slow leak that goes undetected for too long can cause significant mold problems that are difficult and expensive to remove.
What to do if your home smells musty:
A sudden drop in water pressure in your Central Florida home can be an indication of a leak in your plumbing system. Leaks in pipes can reduce the flow of water, leading to lower pressure. If you notice that your shower, faucets, or sprinklers are not working as efficiently as they used to, a leak could be to blame.
Check different faucets around your home. If the pressure is low in one specific area, the leak could be localized to that pipe or fixture. But if you notice a drop in pressure across your entire home, then the leak might be deeper in your plumbing system.
With larger leaks, you may be able to hear the sound of running water even when all taps are off. If you hear the sound of water running or dripping behind walls or ceilings, then there is most likely a leak in your plumbing that needs attention. It could be a broken pipe or a small leak in the system that’s causing water to flow even when it shouldn’t.
Listen carefully in areas where you suspect the leak might be, such as around water fixtures, bathrooms, or near the water meter. If you hear running water but can’t find the leak, call Leak Inspector to inspect your system.
In areas where water leaks persist, you may notice changes in the physical appearance of your flooring. Wood floors may warp or buckle, while tile flooring could start to lift due to moisture underneath. Carpeted areas may become damp, or the carpet might smell musty if water has been present for too long.
If your flooring starts to show signs of damage, look for any plumbing leaks or visible water stains nearby. If you’re unsure, then contact Leak Inspector and we can conduct a thorough inspection of your home to identify hidden leaks under your floors.
In some cases, water leaks can even cause serious foundation issues. If water is constantly leaking into your home, it can erode the foundation or cause cracks in the walls and floors. In Central Florida, where the ground is sandy, water infiltration can have a more noticeable effect on the stability of your foundation.
How to check:
Even a small water leak can cause significant damage to your Central Florida home if left unaddressed. By staying alert to the signs of a water leak, you can hopefully catch the problem early and minimize damage.
If you suspect a water leak but can’t find the source, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at Leak Inspector for an inspection. We can find and address any leaks promptly and save you from expensive repairs. Leak Inspector can help keep your home safe and dry, so don’t hesitate – contact Leak Inspector today!